Gear Inspection Tips – Part 2: Rigging Hardware

We’re back with more inspection tips and procedures, but this time we’re focusing on rigging hardware, including CM shackles, LiftAll’s slings (Steelflex and Tuflex) and wire rope, CM trolleys, and Chicago Hardware turnbuckles. All of these essential production items can be found at our online shop for easily stocking. Let’s jump in!

CM Shackles

Shackles should be visually inspected before each use in line with ASME B30.26 regulations

Shackles must be properly used to avoid damage and wear. Remember, the WLL is reduced depending on the angle your hanging load is pulling. Always refer to a competent and skilled rigger if there is any doubt on proper installation.

Shackles should be discarded from use if any of the following conditions are visible:

The use of shackles in rigging is extremely common, and must be installed correctly each time for safety. Never hang something if you have any doubt on the correct protocol and technique that you should follow.

Competent inspectors and workers should asses the overall effects of all damage present on a sling in order to determine if a particular sling passes or fails inspection. Ideally, slings should be taken out of service before the total amount of damage, caused by all degrading factors, results in a total strength loss of not more than approximately 20%. We trust slings in our lifting applications, and there’s no wiggle room when dealing with proper material handling. Training is important to make sure your crew is educated on the proper usage of slings in rigging applications.

Turnbuckles

All turnbuckles are to be inspected at least once a year by a surveyor for proper functioning and damages

Turnbuckles should be checked visually every day during use

Turnbuckles should be taken apart at least every 4 years by a specialist for inspection of wear, hidden damages, or cracks

If possible, turnbuckles should be tested by an authorized testing body every 4 years

Remove turnbuckles from service if any of the following conditions are visible:

All markings are not legible

Threads of the pin and/or body are damaged

The body and pin are distorted or unduly worn

Turnbuckle has been modified, repaired, or reshaped by heating (will affect working load limit)

Always use turnbuckles properly and within their denoted working load limit. As all rigging hardware and rigging applications, trained supervisors and workers must have an expert knowledge on proper installation and inspection to ensure safety.

CM Ball Bearing Trolley

Thorough inspection is recommended at regular intervals which are determined by each user. Each application has different factors, such as duty cycle and environmental conditions that will dictate the maintenance requirements.

During inspection, the entire trolley should be inspected for wear or for damage caused by severe overloading or impact with other objects.

Make sure to check the trolley’s motion along the runway beam to verify proper operation

Replace all damaged parts before bringing the inspected trolley back into use

Lubrication Recommendations

¼ through 5 ton trolleys are built with sealed, life-time lubricated precision ball bearings that shouldn’t require further lubrication

Periodic lubrication of the geared trolley drive shaft support block is recommended; apply a small amount of medium grade motor oil in the oil hole provided in the top of the drive shaft support block

Thanks for reading our Gear Inspection Tips Blog Series. If you missed it, check out Part 1 where we cover a variety of fall protection and safety gear (inspection sheets, guidelines, and documents from the manufacturer available for easy download). These posts are only published for informational use and as a helpful resource, and not as a legal document in any way. With any piece of equipment, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, as well as OSHA and ANSI standards. Our rigging department can help you with any questions regarding the proper inspection techniques or frequency of inspection. Call us at 570 826 5566.